MIA
What natural birth means
Natural birth usually means labour that starts on its own and moves on with as little medical help as is safe for you and your baby. It often means birth without an epidural, using movement, water and support to cope.
It is not a test you pass or fail. Many births include some help along the way, and that is still your birth.
Why your hormones matter
Labour is driven by hormones, mainly oxytocin. Oxytocin works best when you feel safe, warm, private and unhurried. Fear and stress hormones can slow labour down.
That is why dim light, quiet voices, a familiar person and freedom to move can make a real difference.
Move and stay upright
Walking, swaying, kneeling and leaning forward use gravity and help your baby move down. A Cochrane review found upright positions in the first stage are linked with a shorter labour and fewer epidurals.
A birth ball, a pool or a partner to lean on all help. Change position whenever your body asks.
Continuous support
Having one person with you the whole way through, such as a partner, friend or doula, is one of the best-proven ways to help labour. It is linked with fewer interventions and a better birth experience.
Talk with your support person before labour about what helps you and what you want.
Getting ready in pregnancy
Antenatal classes, breathing practice and learning the stages of labour all help you feel calm and ready.
Write down your wishes, and talk them through with your midwife. Think about where you want to give birth, since midwife-led units and home births have fewer interventions for people with healthy pregnancies.
Every option is fine
Pain relief, induction or a caesarean can be the right choice for you or your baby. Mia explains these fairly too.
If plans change, you can still keep things that matter to you, like skin-to-skin, dim lights or your music.
Water birth